There are reasons why China cannot play soccer. Their skills are declining, and they do not know how to reflect on their shortcomings.
The South Korean national soccer team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, defeated China 3-0 in the opening match of the 2025 East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) E-1 Championship (East Asian Cup) at Yongin Mir Stadium at 8 p.m. on the 7th.
Korea achieved a resounding victory in their home opener with consecutive goals from Lee Dong-kyung, Joo Min-kyu, and Kim Joo-sung. The domestic players performed exceptionally well in the absence of European players.
Lee Dong-kyung, who is about to be discharged as a sergeant, scored a wonder goal. In the 8th minute of the first half, Lee Dong-kyung made a good touch near the right side of the box, broke away from the defense, and curled the ball with his left foot. The ball traveled in a fantastic trajectory past the Chinese goalkeeper and into the net.
China displayed unsportsmanlike behavior with their characteristic Kung Fu soccer. In the 34th minute of the first half, Gao Tieng stepped on Lee Dong-kyung's foot near the sideline. He received a warning for a dangerous play that seemed intentional. It was a scene that could have led to a dismissal. There was no video review for this tournament, so the warning was all he received.
After the match, Chinese media harshly criticized their national team. Sohu.com noted, "It was an embarrassing and ugly game. The Chinese national team, made up primarily of Super League players, lost 0-3 to Korea's second string. Even though the Korean team lacked decisiveness, they lost by three goals."
Absurd claims followed. There was no mention whatsoever of the dangerous fouls committed by China that resulted in warnings. Sohu.com absurdly claimed, "The Chinese national team demonstrated stronger sportsmanship than Korea. They had fewer fouls than their opponents. Right before the end of the match, they even gave Korea the first right to attack during an out situation, showcasing excellent sportsmanship throughout the game."
Despite the heavy defeat against Korea, China is busy rationalizing themselves. There was no reflection on committing dangerous fouls due to a lack of skills. Without true reflection, China will forever fail to succeed in soccer.
[OSEN]